Detroit Lions management chose different paths for their two 2023 first-round draft picks, according to reports that surfaced Tuesday evening. The team exercised the fifth-year contract option for running back Jahmyr Gibbs while choosing not to pick up linebacker Jack Campbell’s option.
Fox 2 Detroit first reported the news Tuesday night, with ESPN sources later confirming the information.
The decision means Gibbs will receive a guaranteed $14.29 million salary for the 2027 season. Had the Lions picked up Campbell’s option, the All-Pro linebacker would have earned approximately $21.925 million, which ESPN notes exceeds the current highest salary for any off-ball linebacker in the NFL.
According to ESPN’s reporting, Detroit’s front office plans to pursue long-term contract extensions with both Campbell and Gibbs. The organization also faces upcoming extension decisions for tight end Sam LaPorta and defensive back Brian Branch, though neither requires immediate action since they weren’t selected in the first round.
The choice regarding Gibbs appeared straightforward given his exceptional performance. The 24-year-old has accumulated 5,029 yards from scrimmage and scored 49 touchdowns across 49 games with 24 starts during his initial three NFL seasons. His consistent excellence earned him three consecutive Pro Bowl selections.
Campbell, age 25, delivered an outstanding 2023 campaign that included first-team All-Pro recognition and Pro Bowl honors. He achieved personal bests with 176 tackles, five sacks, and three forced fumbles while starting all 17 games. Throughout his 51-game career spanning 46 starts, Campbell has recorded 402 tackles and 8.5 sacks.
Detroit selected both players during the 2023 NFL Draft, taking Gibbs with the 12th overall selection and Campbell at 18th overall.
